Gov.-elect Andrew Cuomo is asking the federal government to redirect $1.2 billion to New York State for high-speed rail projects.

The Democrat is asking Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to redirect the money to New York if the governors-elect in Ohio and Wisconsin continue with their promise to cancel the projects that were to be funded with the money.

Cuomo says high-speed rail could be the 21st century equivalent of the Erie Canal and New York is ready to spend the money now as a boost to the economy.

Cuomo says thousands of jobs would be created as well as a faster route across the state.

Ohio's incoming governor Republican John Kasich wants to scrap a high-speed rail project in the face of growing deficits.

U.S. Department of Transportation spokeswoman Olivia Alair didn't comment on Cuomo's request, saying only that "there is an incredible demand for high-speed rail dollars around the country."